Beyond the Pages

How to Challenge What You’re Reading

Introduction

Hi everyone! 

I’m back with another post to help you make the most of your reading journey. In a few of my previous posts, I talked about finding books you love and some of my favorites. I know when people think of reading a fiction novel, critical thinking is not particularly one of their goals. Most fiction novels are meant to be light, fun reads, but I’ve found that we can still learn a lot by diving deeper into the stories beyond the pages. In this article, I want to let you in on what I’ve learned: how to challenge what you’re reading. 

Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting out in your reading journey, learning to critically engage with your books can make a world of difference in your reading experience. So, let’s jump right in!

Why Challenge Your Reading?

Have you ever read someone’s book review and they had a completely different perspective than you? I have and it always leaves me feeling like I read an entirely different book than everyone else. I am always able to find new themes and opinions I missed in my reading experience in others’ reviews. 

Challenging what you’re reading isn’t always about being overly critical or finding some big meaning behind the story. Sometimes, a fictional story is just that. A work of fiction. Instead, it’s about engaging with the material on a deeper level. By questioning and analyzing what you’re reading, you can:

• Enhance Your Understanding: Digging deeper helps you grasp complex themes and ideas.
• Develop Your Critical Thinking Skills: Evaluating different perspectives plays a major role in developing your analytical skills.
• Increase Your Enjoyment: When you make an effort to engage with your books on a deeper level, it becomes way easier to enjoy your reading experience. 

Tips for Challenging What You’re Reading

1. Ask Questions:
   • What is the author’s main argument or theme?
   • Do you agree with the characters’ decisions and actions? Why or why not?
   • What are the underlying assumptions or biases in the text?
2. Consider the Context:
   • When and where was the book written?
   • Who is the author and how would their background influence the story?
   • Are there historical or cultural references that add depth to your understanding?
3. Analyze the Characters:
   • Are the characters well-developed and believable?
   • What are their motivations, and how do they evolve?
   • How do their interactions drive the plot forward?
   • How does the author’s use of language affect your reading experience?
4. Reflect on Your Reactions:
   • How does the book make you feel, and why?
   • Are there any parts that resonate with you or challenge your beliefs?
   • What can you take away from the book and apply to your own life?
5. Compare to Other Novels:
   • How does this book compare to others in the same genre?
   • Can you identify any recurring themes in the author’s work?
   • How does it compare to your favorite reads?

Practical Steps to Engage Critically

• Take Notes: I know how common it is to completely forget the specifics or other details when you’re reading. Jot down your thoughts, questions, and reactions as you read. This will help you keep track of your ideas and refer back to them later! This will lead to a more informed, well-rounded review.
• Join a Book Club or Book Group: Discussing books with others can provide new insights and perspectives. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow book lovers! There are tons of book groups around on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads! 
• Write Reviews: Whether it’s for your own blog, Goodreads, or just for yourself, writing reviews can help you sort through your thoughts and engage more deeply with your reads. 

Final Thoughts

Challenging what you’re reading doesn’t mean you have to approach every book like a homework assignment. It’s about enriching your reading experience and making each book more meaningful. So next time you pick up a new read, take a moment to think critically, ask questions, and dive deep. Hopefully, you can get more out of your reading experience! 

Until next time,
Monique